Reaction Prediction - Is there a reaction?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the reaction of sodium oxide with water, specifically whether a reaction occurs and how to determine this without external resources. The scope includes conceptual understanding and homework-related inquiry.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants present the reaction equation Na2O + H2O --> 2NaOH, indicating a reaction occurs.
  • Participants express uncertainty regarding the absence of states of matter in the problem, questioning how to ascertain the existence of a reaction.
  • One participant seeks a more general method to determine if a reaction occurs without relying on external sources.
  • Another participant notes that metal oxides, particularly those from Group I and II, are basic and typically produce hydroxides when dissolved in water, suggesting a general rule for these types of reactions.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on whether there is a reaction, as some assert it occurs while others highlight the uncertainty due to missing information about states of matter.

Contextual Notes

The discussion lacks clarity on the assumptions regarding states of matter and does not resolve how these assumptions affect the determination of a reaction.

AnomalyCoder
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Homework Statement


sodium oxide plus water --> ?
Is there a reaction?

Homework Equations


sodium oxide plus water yield sodium hydroxide

The Attempt at a Solution


Na2O + H2O --> 2NaOH

I don't understand whether or not there is a reaction. The problem does not give any states of matter, so how can I determine whether or not there is in fact a reaction?
 
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AnomalyCoder said:

Homework Statement


sodium oxide plus water --> ?
Is there a reaction?

Homework Equations


sodium oxide plus water yield sodium hydroxide


The Attempt at a Solution


Na2O + H2O --> 2NaOH

I don't understand whether or not there is a reaction. The problem does not give any states of matter, so how can I determine whether or not there is in fact a reaction?

http://wiki.answers.com/Q/Chemical_equation_of_sodium_oxide_and_water_is_sodium_hydroxide
 
I was hoping for something a little more general, Bipolarity.
As in, how can one tell whether or not there is a reaction, without googling to find out.
 
AnomalyCoder said:
I was hoping for something a little more general, Bipolarity.
As in, how can one tell whether or not there is a reaction, without googling to find out.

Metal oxides are basic, particularly those of the Group I and Group II metals. This means they produce hydroxides when dissolved in water.

So you have,
Metal oxide + Water --> Metal hydroxide

BiP
 

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